Guided tours of Perth, Scotland
Once the ancient capital of Scotland, this beautiful city on the banks of the River Tay is easily accessible from our two major cities and hides a wealth of cultural, architectural and historical gems.
The Fair City
Our tour starts at the Walter Scott monument at the entrance to the South Inch where we will learn more about Scott’s influence on Scotland and his connection with Perth. Why is Perth called the Fair City? Admire the beautiful steeple of St Leonard in the Fields church and explore the importance of the railways in the history of Perth’s development. Walk along Marshall place. Who was Mr Marshall?
Scone Palace
Take in the architecture and head towards the river Tay. What is the Inch? Find out how it is used today and how it was used in the past. We will pass the Fergusson Gallery. Who was John Fergusson and what was this building originally used for? Walking alongside the river, you will spot the tallest church spire in Perth and find out why the river was so important. Who is Miss Ballantine, what is her connection to the river and why is she so revered in Perth? Discover the stone carvings and the stories behind them.
The Stone of Destiny
In previous times, how did people cross the river? After passing the law courts and the old and new city chambers, we will continue on to discover some of Perth’s public artwork and sculptures. We will see for ourselves how high the water rose in the years of the great floods. Once reaching the North Inch,we will listen to stories about the Battle of the Clans. Moving from past to present, we will learn about how Perth has adapted in modern times – from the disappearance of the traditional industries to the emergence of new ones to Perth’s links to a wealth of different sports.
Hear about the Stone of Destiny… an ancient symbol of Scotland’s monarchy, used for centuries to crown her Kings. Find out how it was not only seized by a King and built into his new throne at Westminster in the 13th Century but then on Christmas Day in 1950 stolen by a group of students and driven across the Border.
Now in Edinburgh, The Stone of Destiny is due to return to Perth in 2024. What celebrations there will be!
Discover all of this and much more, including a visit to the Perth section of the Fergusson museum and a stop outside St John’s Kirk where John Knox, a religious leader and one of the founders of the Scottish Reformation, preached in 1559. The tour finishes in the town centre where you can have your photograph taken next to the Fair Maid or just enjoy a coffee in one of Perth’s many cafes.
All of our walking tours can be tailored to what you want to see and experience.
If you’re unsure, then let us help you. We can devise a tour that takes in the sights of Perth you are really interested in visiting. Leave it to us and we’ll slot in a few lesser known places.